Maungatapere School

Newsletter 20 March 2025

From the Principal

Kia ora koutou katoa,

This week has been a hive of activity, filled with outdoor adventures and focused professional development. I'm excited to share some of the highlights with you.

Y3/4 Sail EOTC Days: Embracing the Outdoors!

What a fantastic few days it's been down at Parua Bay Yacht Club! Rooms 1 and 2 and have been diving into the world of sailing, and the smiles and stories I've heard are full of excitement. I have the pleasure of joining Room 3 this morning after writing this newsletter.

Building Confidence: It was wonderful to hear about the children bravely testing their life jackets and building water confidence, with Room 1 even taking the plunge from their optimist yachts! These experiences are invaluable for developing resilience and a sense of adventure.
Safety First: A huge thank you to our incredible parent volunteers who made these days possible. Your dedication to ensuring the safety of our students is appreciated. The process of gathering vehicle registrations, driver's licenses, WOF checks, and volunteer agreements is extensive, but absolutely necessary. I understand it can feel like a lot of paperwork, and I sincerely appreciate your promptness and cooperation.
Behind the Scenes: I want to be transparent about the challenges our teachers face in organising these EOTC events. The preparation involved, including creating individual student support plans, managing medication, and addressing learning needs, is considerable. I've overheard some teacher sentiments that it would be easier to forgo these experiences. However, we firmly believe that the unique learning opportunities and personal growth that EOTC provides are worth the effort.
Thank You: To our teachers and parent volunteers, your mahi(work) is truly valued. You've created lasting memories and invaluable learning experiences for our students.

Mathematics Professional Learning: Investing in Our Students Future

Back at school, this week has been dedicated to advancing our mathematics instruction. We've welcomed Charlotte Wilkinson, a highly regarded mathematics specialist, to work with our staff.

Strategic Focus: Part of our strategic plan prioritises the refreshed mathematics curriculum, and the Board of Trustees has committed to providing our teachers with the best possible professional development.
Observing and Reflecting: Charlotte has been observing teachers current practices across all levels of the school, providing valuable insights and feedback. Her mantra, "how do we improve what you are doing as a teacher of mathematics", is a powerful driver for growth.
Collaborative Learning: Through rolling staff meetings and collaboration with the leadership team, we're developing a comprehensive plan to enhance mathematics teaching and student learning.
Whaea Rachael's Leadership: I'd like to acknowledge the exceptional work of Whaea Rachael, our Deputy Principal of Curriculum and Assessment. Her recommendation of Charlotte Wilkinson and her dedication to curriculum development have been instrumental in this initiative. This newly formed definition of role for Whaea Rachael, has seen the strengthening of assessment and learning e-asTTle in reading and maths last year, and a heavy focus on writing during Term 1. The refreshed curriculum requirements have been a big demand on teachers to unpack the new curriculum, reflect on the impacts and improvements required in their practice. I would like to acknowledge our staff for their proactive, hardworking commitment to put effort, energy and time into the professional learning plan of the school and themselves as professionals. Well done team.
Looking Ahead: Charlotte will return for further sessions, allowing us to delve deeper into this important work. The enthusiasm and "buzz" among our staff are a testament to the positive impact of this professional development.

I am incredibly proud of the dedication and passion of our teachers, staff, and parent community. Together, we are creating a vibrant and enriching learning environment for our students.

Ngā mihi nui,

Jacob MacDonald Rm 4 Great focus, hard work and supporting others in Room 4.

Boone Chambers Rm 4 Big, Brave, Bonne! Your determination in the swimming pool is amazing!

Darnell Shelford Rm 13 Fantastic focus when learning sign language. A great role model to others.

Caira Tonner Rm 7 Always displaying the school values and doing it with a smile. An awesome role model!!

School Term Dates

22 Mar 2025 Maunga Mayhem

26-28 Mar 2025 Year 5/6 Lonsdale Park Camp

28 Mar 2025 Year 7/8 Technology

3 Apr 2025 Year 5/6 Netball Trials

4 Apr 2025 Year 7/8 Technology

11 Apr 2025 Teacher Only Day/Last Day of Term

28 Apr 2025 First Day Term 2

9 May 2025 Year 7/8 Technology

23 May 2025 Year 7/8 Technology

2 June 2025 Kings Birthday Public Holiday

6 June 2025 Year 7/8 Technology

11 June 2025 School Photos

20 June 2025 Matariki Public Holiday

27 June 2025 Last Day Term 2

14 July 2025 First Day Term 3

Linewize

Roblox is a game that is often talked about by some of our students at school. Here an interesting, in depth article that looks at the positives and negatives of the platform that may need to be considered.

Linewize Article